The World pays tribute to the late Kofi Annan who passed after a short illness

The charismatic Ghanaian national, Kofi Annan, who lived in Switzerland and served as the first Secretary General to the United Nation from 1997 to 2006 has passed away.

Many will remember him as a career diplomat who had unrivaled charisma and apathy befitting of a world-leader. Leaders all over the world are sending their condolescense:

Russia President Vladimir Putin described him as a “remarkable person.” Former U.S. President Barack Obama said Annan was always pursuing “a better world.” The current UN Chief Antonio Guterres praised him as “a guiding force for good.”

A press statement by the Kofi Annan Foundation said he “passed away peacefully on Saturday after a short illness.”

The foundation further said he was “deeply committed internationalist who fought throughout his life for a fairer and more peaceful world.”

I am grief-stricken over the death of Kofi Annan. Kofi was the epitome of human decency and grace. In a world now filled with leaders who are anything but that, the world’s loss becomes even more painful. He was a friend to thousands and a leader of millions.

Learning from #KofiAnnan over the years has shaped me immeasurably & I join his immediate & global family in mourning today. We lost a giant today & we owe it to him to be as bold and unwavering in our commitment to peace as he was….now more than ever. #RIPKofiAnnanpic.twitter.com/QmefQiVW3A

#KofiAnnan never stopped fighting for justice, peace & dignity for all, knowing this struggle is a marathon not a sprint. He was warm, compassionate & intelligent, exuding dignity & grace. So privileged to have worked with him to tackle climate change, poverty & gender equality pic.twitter.com/NGv74aje2W

#KofiAnnan former Secretary General and leader of Mandela’s Elders was above all a peacemaker. I witnessed him arguing patiently and passionately with Bush 43 policy makers against Iraq decisions before the war. He never stopped trying. My thoughts are with Nane. RIP

Another very sad loss. Former UN Secretary-General who won the Nobel Peace Prize for humanitarian work, has died aged 80. Leading the way for so many #KofiAnnan was the first black African to hold the top UN post pic.twitter.com/29h2vUw4da